Skip to main content

North Houston Flea and Tick Medicine and Prevention

Whether your pet is scratching excessively or you’re looking for preventive care, TEXAVET is here to provide treatment and care for external parasites for cats and dogs. Parasite infestations can pose significant risks to your beloved companion, which is why we’re passionate about safeguarding their well-being with our treatment options.

From understanding the signs of an infestation to knowing the best course of action, our veterinarians are here to help you with the knowledge, expertise, and gentle hand your pet deserves. If your pet is suffering from external parasites in North Houston, look no further than our practice and visit us today!

What Are External Parasites?

External parasites are organisms that live on the surface of your pet’s body, feeding off their blood and skin to survive. If left untreated, these parasites can lead to more serious health problems like infections, diseases, and internal parasites. Some common external parasites that can affect cats and dogs include:

  • Fleas: These small, wingless insects jump onto pets and feed on their blood. Fleas can cause itching and allergic reactions as well as transmit tapeworms or other diseases. Typically, a flea is about the size of a pinhead, dark brown or reddish-brown. You may also see small white eggs or black specks in areas where your pet spends time resting.
  • Ticks: This type of arachnid latches onto a pet’s skin to feed on their blood. Most commonly found in grassy or wooded areas, ticks can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease. Ticks are larger than fleas, ranging from the size of a poppy seed to a small pea. On your pet, they may look like small brown, black, or grayish-white bumps on their skin.
  • Mites: Very commonly found on cats’ ears, these organisms can cause mange or ear infections and lead to intense itching or irritation. Mites are microscopic and not visible to the naked eye.

Signs Your Pet Has External Parasites

The symptoms of an external parasite vary depending on the type of parasite, the extent of the infestation, and how well your pet may be hiding their discomfort. If you have any concerns or doubts about whether your pet is suffering from an infestation, it’s important to seek veterinary advice by visiting our clinic. There are several common signs to look for, including:

  • Excessive scratching, licking, or biting
  • Hair loss or bald patches
  • Red, irritated, or inflamed skin
  • Visible parasites or eggs
  • Scabs or sores
  • Restlessness and discomfort due to constant itching and biting

  • Ear issues such as shaking, scratching, or discharge

What To Expect at Our Clinic

At TEXAVET, we understand that regular prevention and treatment are key to protecting pets from external parasites. When you visit our clinic, we’ll check your pet all over for fleas, ticks, and ear mites. If your pet is suffering from an infestation, our veterinarians will assess the severity of the problem and create a personalized treatment plan to ensure your pet gets the relief they need.

Regardless of whether your pet currently has external parasites, we typically recommend prescription medication, such as topical flea and tick medicine for cats and dogs. These treatments are generally very effective for both preventing future infections and killing any current parasites that might be present. We’ll also give you advice on how to keep external parasites at bay, such as flea baths, medicated ear wash, and manual removal of ticks.

FAQs About External Parasites

We understand that you may have questions about external parasites. Whether or not your pet is currently dealing with an infestation, we have the answers you need. Our team readily addresses your concerns and can assist you with understanding how to treat, manage, and prevent external parasites. Some frequently asked questions we receive about external parasites in North Houston include:

Where do external parasites come from?

External parasites can be found nearly everywhere. Flea and mite eggs can even be found in your home, waiting to hatch until there is a suitable host to latch onto. Ticks can be found commonly in woods or tall grass. Because of the prevalence of external parasites, preventive measures, such as medication, are key.

What health issues can external parasites cause?

External parasites can cause a variety of health issues in pets, including skin infections, internal parasites (such as tapeworms), anemia due to blood loss, and tick- and flea-borne illnesses.

Are there different medicines for different types of pets?

Yes. There are specific preventive medicines for treating different kinds of external parasites. Most often, these are specific to your pet’s species and weight. For example, a large dog will need a different monthly dosage of topical flea and tick medicine compared to a kitten.

Reliable Prevention for External Parasites in North Houston

When your pet is suffering from external parasites in North Houston, our team at TEXAVET is here for you. We understand how stressful dealing with external parasites can be for both you and your pet, which is why we focus on delivering effective, compassionate treatments tailored to your pet’s unique needs. Through excellent management of infestations as well as proactive care, we can help your pet be parasite-free, contributing to their overall well-being. For more information, contact our veterinary team today!